419: Samurai Propriety

In This Episode: On this episode of the Achieve Results NOW! Podcast, hosts Mark Cardone and Theron Feidt continue their deep dive into ancient warrior wisdom with the principle of Samurai Courtesy. In modern terms, courtesy is all about politeness, propriety, professionalism, and appropriateness. As an achiever, you likely already know the fundamentals of good manners, but as Theron's early mentor once said: "Successful people don't need to be told what to do, but they do need reminders." These basic principles are written on walls and in books precisely because they are easy to forget when we get caught up in the chaos of day-to-day life. Mark and Theron challenge listeners to practice politeness with the people who can do absolutely nothing for you, rather than just using it as a tool to close a sale. They also turn the mirror inward, reminding us that we are often the meanest to the people we love the most at home. True courtesy requires conscious effort, and the hosts share 3 actionable steps to build it into your daily routine. 1. Make Politeness a Daily Habit 🚪 Courtesy is a core black belt principle that students say at the end of every martial arts class. It is a mindset that builds relationships and can completely turn a stranger's day around. Be Mindful and Thoughtful: You cannot build positive habits by accident. Deliberately go out into the world with the intention of saying "please" and "thank you" more often. The Door Test: Theron points out a common frustration: while older generations almost always say thank you when you hold a door, younger generations frequently walk through without a word. Instead of shouting an aggressive "you're welcome," use it as a reminder to master your own reactions. Start at Home: Practice courtesy with your spouse and children. Take a beat before you react out of frustration. Look for small, unexpected ways to show courtesy at home, like a child putting dishes away without being asked. 2. Guard and Build Your Reputation 🚗✨ Your reputation is incredibly difficult to get back once you lose it, and it must be actively guarded. The Public Eye: How you carry yourself in public matters. Theron notes that while you don't need a fancy car, keeping your vehicle clean inside and out reflects your standard of personal pride. Branding & Sensory Acuity: In business, your reputation is your branding. When customers walk in, they need to feel that professionalism. Utilize sensory acuity—an awareness of your surroundings. If you walk into a silent room, don't be the loudest person. Dress appropriately for the environments you enter. Being an individual doesn't require being a jerk. 3. Lead by Example to Create a Positive Environment 🌍 You lighten up a room either by entering it or by leaving it. Your actions trigger a massive ripple effect that can actively make the world a better or worse place to live. No Hypocrites: You cannot effectively tell your kids to be polite if you aren't modeling that behavior yourself. Mark jokes that he even says "thank you" to Siri on his phone just to ensure he never breaks the habit of courtesy. Check Your Entrance: When you walk into a family party or a Starbucks, leave your complaints about traffic at the door. Don't make everyone else uncomfortable with negative energy. Treat people with respect simply because they are human beings, not because of what they can give you. The Takeaway: If your kids or team members are acting like jerks, look in the mirror. It's not just about what you tell them, it's about what you show them. Bring propriety to your public settings and kindness to your private ones. ARN Suggested Reading: Blessings In the Bullshit: A Guided Journal for Finding the BEST In Every Day – by Mark Cardone & Theron Feidt https://www.amazon.com/Blessings-Bullshit-Guided-Journal-Finding/dp/B09FP35ZXX/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=blessings+in+the+bullshit&qid=1632233840&sr=8-1 Full List of Recommended Books: https://www.achieveresultsnow.com/readers-are-leaders Question: 1. Do you have a question you want answered in a future podcast? 2. Go to www.AchieveResultsNow.com to submit. Connect with Us: Get access to some of the great resources that we use at: www.AchieveResultsNow.com/success-store www.AchieveResultsNow.com www.facebook.com/achieveresultsnow www.twitter.com/nowachieve Thank you for listening to the Achieve Results NOW! Podcast. The podcast that gives you immediate actions you can take to start seeing life shifting results NOW!